More than 100 Sailors participated in a 'Jingle Bell' 5K on the flight deck of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), Dec. 11.

The race kicked off with Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher Martin, from Silverdale, Washington, a member of supply department, dressed in full Santa Clause attire, bringing runners to their mark and then starting the race with the jingling of a hand bell.

Runners completed 10 laps around a marked track on the flight deck to make the 5K distance.

"This was a challenge and a good workout," said Lt. Adam Danielson, from San Diego, who came in second place for men. "After being in Hawaii where it was warm, this helps get into the holiday spirit because we can feel the weather getting a little colder, and if we had some snow then it would really be perfect."

The race marked the second holiday 5K completed on John C. Stennis' flight deck in the past month.

"I did the Turkey Trot and this was a great race too," said Petty Officer 1st Class Noelia Perez, from Houston, who placed first for women. "I run about five times a week and I felt well prepared. Running is definitely my stress reliever and it was great to come up here and see everyone dressed up having a good time together."

The run was facilitated through the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation and supply department in collaboration with air department, who arranged aircraft to accommodate the 5K route. The 5K was designed as a way for Sailors to celebrate the upcoming holidays while at sea.

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For more news from USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), visit http://www.navy.mil/.